Grafton Street Pub and Grill

Cambridge / Somerville, Boston –

A Harvard Square institution for more than a decade, the popular Grafton Street Pub and Grill – named for Dublin’s famed cobblestone shopping district – is a buzzing neighborhood hotspot favored by outgoing local Harvard coeds, faculty, and young professionals.

High wainscoting in cream and black, partitions of gauzy curtains, and tall windows with views of the square give the roomy space a cozy vibe, perfect for a little study break during the day, while glowing gold pendant lights, dark brown furnishings, and tan leather banquettes add a homey touch that makes for a charming date spot with a cutie from calculus.

Customers looking for a low-key atmosphere, a delicious Reuben, or Sloppy Joes late night during the week, can pile into one of the circular booths in the restaurant, though most of the action takes place at the bustling and often over-packed front bar, where the sociable college set gathers to flirt and chat over their favorite local brews, or take their drinks to the ledge by the window to contemplate the meaning of veritas.

On weekends, the upbeat crowd spills over into the restaurant to groove to tunes spun by local DJs, while those who need a break from the buzz of the tightly packed crowd can step out to the patio.

Whether patrons want to unwind with dinner after a long day of midterms or work, or to mingle with the easygoing clientele over a pitcher of sangria, Grafton Street Pub is one of those rare places where they can do both – and all at the same time, no less.